teachers with POCD

Im a teacher with POCD as well, my brain always tells me I’m attracted to my students and it’s hell

I work with children everyday in an Occupational Therapy based setting, very similar to teching. I have "eased" my thoughts by treating my kiddos in a shared space to hold my actions and thoughts more accountable. Have you thought about getting an assistant helper? As a therapist we notice a lot without trying too, it's the nature of teaching new or challenging skills! I have a conversation with all of my new client kiddos that "When we play together, I want you to feel safe and if there is ever something I do that you dont like, please tell me. I will not het upset with you for twlling me how you feel. Just like I will let you know if I dont like something. We are here to have fun and work on growing our skills together." Its a great way to openly address your fears in a positive, supportive, and appropriate fashion vs in the moment when we are overwhelmed. It is also a great way to encourage body atomomy and help kids et boundaries for themselves with a TRUSTED ADULT. I also narriate and ask permission when I touch them such as "I notice your arms might need a little help, can I help your arms? Im going to bend your elbow and turn your hand so we can see the palm." Always try to visually demonstrate before going in to help them hand over hand. The fact that is scares you... is a good thing. I means you care that much, too much unfortunately. These are some things that have helped me! Let me know if it is helpful to you. :)

Is it the potential judgement of the parents or kids or yourself that you feel more? Are you a parent yourself or an aunt? Somthing that helps ground me is: "if someone did this to a kid, would I have the same thoughts..." Someone somewhere trusts you to let you lead a class. The parents keep bringing thier kids back to class. Do the kids look joyful? I would think it's wonderful that class would be able to continue uninterrupted. It sounds like this class os more fun vs professional ballet for example. Let fun set the mood. If the primary teacher did this, would I be worried about what I just saw happen? Watch how the parents respond to the teachers words/actions. I feel I mask and imitate others when I doubt myself. Find moments from parents, friends, other teachers and pick out wat you like that they do and impliment it yourself. I have gathered a mental tool box of "appropriate responses/actions" as if it were a flow chart with premade outcomes. I fake it through my thoughts then worry my whole life is fake. But you know what, I have a pretty great fake life--most days. Even if its fake, it's the life I have and it serves me well. Also, I'd be asking the teacher how long she plans to be out. That uncertainty would get me the most, how long am I in this position of primary teacher... that can change a mindset too.

I can't do class